Placements and Work Experience

CETL-AURS has funded projects that have developed opportunities for undergraduates to gain practical work experience, through:

• summer placements on UROP - the chance to engage in real research projects during summer;
• the development of industrial placements within degree programmes; and
• creating volunteering opportunities within our museums and collections.

Projects

UROP

Reading has a long tradition of students in some subject areas working with staff on their research. CETL-AURS has created an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme, or UROP, which funds around 25 undergraduate research placements over the summer break. Placements provide undergraduates with the chance to work on University research projects alongside academic staff, gaining invaluable experience and contributing to the development of their professional skills.

View Report Contact: Joanna John or John Creighton.

Agriculture

Within Agriculture we have funded a project to provide the option of industrial placements to a degree programme. Prior to this project none of the programmes within the School provided industrial placements. Undergraduates benefit from industry experience, acquiring skills and knowledge, and a better understanding of their industry.

View Report Contact: Julian Park

University Museums and Collections Service

We are also supporting a Volunteer Development Project, which aims to provide formalised and accredited work experience in the heritage sector. The project aim is to provide a wide range of opportunities, training and careers advice to students, and to create a formal qualification for students who undertake voluntary work within the University's collections, as well as benefitting students' research and employability skills. The project is based within the Museum of Rural Life.

View Report Contact: Rhianedd Smith